The average price for kitchen renovation in the United States typically falls between \$12,000 and \$50,000, though a minor refresh might cost less than \$5,000, and a high-end cost of full kitchen overhaul can easily exceed \$100,000.
Redoing a kitchen is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you look at the price tag. Knowing what to expect helps you plan better. This guide breaks down all the potential costs. We will help you in budgeting for a kitchen redesign so you get the kitchen you want without breaking the bank.
Deciphering the Kitchen Remodel Cost Breakdown
A kitchen renovation involves many parts. To get a clear picture of the total expense, you need to see where your money is going. This kitchen remodel cost breakdown shows the major spending areas.
| Component | Typical Percentage of Total Budget | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinetry & Hardware | 30% – 40% | Cabinets are usually the biggest expense. |
| Installation & Labor | 15% – 25% | This covers plumbers, electricians, and general contractors. |
| Appliances | 10% – 15% | Cost varies widely based on brand and features. |
| Countertops | 8% – 12% | Material choice (laminate vs. granite) makes a big difference. |
| Flooring | 4% – 8% | Includes demolition and installation of new flooring. |
| Lighting & Electrical | 3% – 5% | Wiring upgrades, new fixtures, and task lighting. |
| Plumbing & Fixtures | 3% – 5% | New sink, faucet, and moving water lines. |
| Backsplash & Walls | 2% – 4% | Paint, tile work, and finishing touches. |
| Permits & Contingency | 5% – 10% | Always set aside money for surprises. |
When estimating kitchen renovation project costs, remember that these percentages shift based on your choices. If you splurge on high-end appliances, the appliance percentage goes up. If you keep existing cabinets, the cabinetry percentage goes down.
Factors Affecting Kitchen Refacing Expense and Full Remodels
Many things change the final price tag. Factors affecting kitchen refacing expense are similar to those for a full tear-out, but refacing saves significantly on demolition and custom carpentry.
Scope of Work: Refacing vs. Replacement
What exactly are you doing? This is the first big cost driver.
- Cosmetic Refresh: This is the cheapest option. It involves painting cabinets, replacing hardware, updating the faucet, and maybe installing a new backsplash. You keep everything else.
- Kitchen Refacing: This means keeping the existing cabinet boxes but replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and perhaps the outer veneer. It saves money because you skip major structural work.
- Full Kitchen Overhaul: This involves tearing everything out—walls, plumbing, electrical, floors, and starting fresh. This is where costs climb quickly.
Material Selection
The materials you choose have a huge impact on your budget.
- Cabinetry: Stock cabinets (ready-made sizes) are the cheapest. Semi-custom offers more options but costs more. Fully custom cabinets cost the most but fit your space perfectly.
- Countertops: Laminate countertops are very budget-friendly. Solid surface materials cost moderately more. Natural stone like granite or quartz is premium priced. Butcher block is a mid-range option.
- Appliances: You can find basic, functional appliances for a low price. Buying professional-grade or smart appliances can double or triple your appliance budget quickly.
Labor Rates and Location
Where you live matters a lot. If you live in a major city, labor rates will be higher than in a small town. High demand for skilled tradespeople drives up the cost of installation and general contracting.
Layout Changes and Structural Work
Do you want to move the sink or stove to a new wall? Moving plumbing and gas lines adds complexity and cost. If you are removing a wall to open up the kitchen to the dining room, this requires structural engineering and adds significant expense to your estimating kitchen renovation project.
Cost Tiers: What to Expect for Different Kitchen Sizes
The average price for kitchen renovation changes based on how big your kitchen is and what level of finish you select. We can break this down into three common tiers.
Small Kitchen Renovation (Under 100 Sq. Ft.)
This typically includes galley kitchens or small U-shaped layouts.
- Budget Refresh (Cosmetic): \$3,000 – \$7,000. (New paint, new hardware, maybe a new budget laminate countertop.)
- Mid-Range Remodel (Refacing/Minor Replacement): \$10,000 – \$20,000. (New budget-friendly cabinets, laminate or entry-level solid surface counters, basic appliances.)
Medium Kitchen Renovation (100 – 200 Sq. Ft.)
This is the size of many standard suburban kitchens.
- Mid-Range Remodel: \$25,000 – \$45,000. (Semi-custom cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, mid-tier appliances, new flooring.) This is where many homeowners land when aiming for a solid upgrade.
- High-End Overhaul: \$50,000 – \$75,000. (Custom cabinetry, high-grade stone, premium appliances, potential minor layout tweaks.)
Large Kitchen Renovation (Over 200 Sq. Ft. or Open Concept)
Large kitchens often involve islands, extensive cabinetry runs, and more complex electrical needs.
- High-End Overhaul: \$75,000 – \$120,000+. (Full custom work, designer finishes, top-of-the-line appliances, full structural changes.) This reflects the cost of full kitchen overhaul when moving toward luxury.
Deep Dive into Typical Expenses for Kitchen Replacement
When you opt for a full teardown, these are the specific items you pay for. These are the typical expenses for kitchen replacement.
Cabinetry Costs
Cabinets are the visual anchor and the largest expense.
- Stock Cabinets: Least expensive. Sold in standard sizes. Quick turnaround.
- Semi-Custom Cabinets: A good balance of choice and price. You can customize dimensions slightly and select specific door styles.
- Custom Cabinets: Built specifically for your space. Highest cost, maximum flexibility.
Tip: Consider organizing your budget around the cabinets. If you save money on cabinet boxes (by choosing semi-custom over fully custom), you can spend more on high-quality countertops or better lighting.
Countertop Material Comparison
The surface you work on affects both the look and the longevity of your kitchen.
| Material | Average Installed Cost (Per Sq. Ft.) | Durability | Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate (Formica) | \$25 – \$75 | Low to Moderate | Wide range of looks; seams can be visible. |
| Butcher Block | \$50 – \$150 | Moderate (Requires maintenance) | Warm, natural look. |
| Granite | \$75 – \$150 | High | Unique patterns; requires periodic sealing. |
| Quartz (Engineered Stone) | \$80 – \$175 | Very High (Non-porous) | Consistent look; low maintenance. |
| Marble | \$100 – \$200+ | Moderate (Prone to etching/staining) | Luxurious, classic appearance. |
Appliance Budgeting
Appliances can range from \$3,000 for a basic suite to \$30,000 for professional-grade setups. When budgeting for a kitchen redesign, decide early if you want stainless steel, panel-ready (hidden behind cabinet fronts), or a specific brand. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of delivery and installation, especially for built-in wall ovens or cooktops.
Flooring, Lighting, and Plumbing
- Flooring: Tile is durable but can be cold underfoot. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a popular, warmer, and more water-resistant choice that can be very affordable kitchen renovation option.
- Lighting: Good lighting is crucial. You will pay for recessed lights, under-cabinet lighting (essential for task areas), and pendants over an island. Electrical labor often increases if you are adding new circuits.
- Plumbing Fixtures: A quality faucet and sink might cost \$500 to \$1,500 total. Moving a sink location will involve extra plumbing labor fees.
Navigating Labor Costs and Hiring Professionals
Labor typically makes up 15% to 25% of the total budget. The final amount depends on the complexity of the job and who you hire.
What is Included in Kitchen Overhaul Cost?
A general contractor’s bid for a full overhaul should include demolition, debris removal, carpentry (framing, cabinet installation), electrical rough-in, plumbing rough-in, drywall, and project management oversight.
Comparing Remodelers
It is vital to get multiple quotes when estimating kitchen renovation project.
- Get Three Bids: Always speak to at least three licensed contractors.
- Compare Apples to Apples: Ensure each bid details exactly what materials and labor they include. A low bid might exclude permits or appliance installation.
- Check Credentials: Verify licenses, insurance, and look at previous client reviews. Price comparison kitchen remodelers involves more than just looking at the bottom line; you are hiring a manager for your investment.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Can you save money by doing it yourself?
- DIY Savings: You can save significantly on simple tasks like painting, demolition, and installing hardware.
- Where Not to DIY: Electrical work, complex plumbing alterations, and structural changes should almost always be done by licensed professionals. Mistakes here can be costly and dangerous. Furthermore, if you use your own labor for installation, your warranty coverage might be impacted.
Strategies for Affordable Kitchen Renovation Options
If the average price feels too high, you can still achieve a major refresh by focusing on smart choices. These are great affordable kitchen renovation options.
Focus on Cosmetics, Not Configuration
The single biggest cost saver is keeping the current footprint. Do not move the sink, stove, or refrigerator if you can avoid it. Every time you change the location of utilities, you pay for demolition, new piping, new wiring, and inspection fees.
Cabinet Refacing vs. Replacing
If your cabinet boxes are in good shape (no major water damage or rot), refacing saves thousands. You get the look of new cabinets for 40% to 60% of the cost of full replacement.
Smart Material Sourcing
- Shop Sales: Buy appliances during holiday sales.
- Use Overstock or Clearance: Look for tile, flooring, or lighting fixtures on clearance racks. Sometimes, you can find high-end materials at mid-range prices if you are flexible on color or pattern.
- Laminate or Tile Countertops: If granite is out of reach, high-quality laminate has improved greatly and offers excellent value. Tile is also a budget-friendly way to get a custom look.
Phased Renovation Approach
If you cannot afford the whole project now, break it into phases.
- Phase 1 (Immediate): Focus on fixing critical issues. New paint, new backsplash, update the lighting, and replace the faucet.
- Phase 2 (1-3 Years Later): Save up for the big items—new cabinets and countertops.
- Phase 3 (Later Still): Install new high-end appliances when your current ones fail.
This approach spreads out the financial impact and allows you to live with an updated, clean space while saving for the major overhaul.
The Importance of Contingency Funds
No matter how well you plan or how thoroughly you estimate, surprises happen. This is why your kitchen remodel cost breakdown must include a buffer.
When estimating kitchen renovation project costs, set aside 10% to 20% of your total budget as a contingency fund. This money is for unexpected discoveries behind the walls, like mold, outdated wiring, or structural damage that needs repair before new finishes go in. If you do not use it, great—you have money left over!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kitchen Redoing Costs
How long does a typical kitchen renovation take?
A minor cosmetic refresh might take one to two weeks. A cost of full kitchen overhaul that involves moving walls and plumbing usually takes 6 to 10 weeks, depending on material lead times and contractor availability.
Is refacing cabinets always cheaper than replacing them?
In most cases, yes. Refacing saves you the cost of the cabinet boxes, demolition, and disposal fees. However, if you want to make major changes to the layout, or if your current boxes are damaged, replacement often becomes the only sensible option, even if it is more expensive.
What is the difference between a kitchen remodel and a kitchen refit?
A remodel usually implies changing the layout, moving major appliances, or significantly upgrading materials and structure. A refit (or refresh) often means updating surfaces and finishes without changing the basic structure or location of plumbing and gas lines. Refacing falls under the refit category.
Should I include permits in my budget?
Yes. Permits are mandatory in most areas, especially if you alter plumbing, electrical systems, or structural supports. They ensure the work passes inspection and protects your home’s resale value. Always ask your contractor about securing necessary permits, and confirm if that cost is included in the estimate you receive when price comparison kitchen remodelers.
What are some ways to keep the kitchen remodel cost breakdown low?
Focus on keeping the plumbing layout the same. Choose stock cabinets or professionally paint existing ones. Opt for durable, cost-effective flooring like LVP instead of high-end natural stone tiles. Being flexible with your timeline can also help you snag better deals on materials.